Bowl Preview: Dec. 31st

Sun Bowl: (8-4) Georgia Tech vs. Utah (7-5)
The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets are headed by dual threat quarterback Tevin Washington while the Utes rely on a powerful running game with John White. The Jackets started off 6-0 then started losing while the Utes have had to deal with the loss of their starting QB Jordan Wynn. Jon Hays did okay replacing Wynn passing for 9 touchdowns with 7 interceptions but the offense hasn't been clicking with him at the helm. Washington led Georgia Tech in passing and rushing and the Utes need to shut him down in order to win. He has two great backs behind him in David Sims and Orwin Smith. Utah won't shut down either and Georgia Tech finishes off with a momentum-boosting win.
Georgia Tech, 28 Utah, 20
Liberty Bowl: (9-3) Cincinnati vs. Vanderbilt (6-6)
Heading into SEC play Vanderbilt looked prime to finish off the season over .500 but then the SEC magic hit and the Commodores finished off a respectable and understandable 6-6. Meanwhile the Bearcats won 9 but most against weak teams. Bearcats' quarterback Zach Collaros struggled at the helm again which was mostly thanks to a broken ankle. Now he's back and has help with a great back behind him in Isaiah Pead. The Commodores are also led by a good back in Zac Stacy but still have a solid quarterback in Jordan Rodgers.
Cincinnati, 27 Vanderbilt, 24
Chick-fil-A Bowl: (8-4) Virginia vs. Auburn (7-5)
Coming off a national championship win Auburn finds themselves stuck in the Chick-fil-A bowl against an emerging Virginia Cavaliers team. Auburn has had trouble figuring out who should be their starter as Clint Moseley and Barrett Trotter have switched off. Though young Kiehl Frazier may be able to gain some snaps. They won't have Michael Dyer to hand it off to as he is suspended so Onterio McCalebb will start at back. Michael Rocco is the QB for Virginia and can do damage after a 11 touchdown and 11 interception year. They have a solid running attack. Though the real dangerous part of this team is their secondary which led by Chase Minnifeld who is sure to be a NFL starter. Whoever starts at quarterback won't have success throwing his way.
Virginia, 31 Auburn, 27
Other Dec. 31 picks:
Fight Hunger Bowl: (6-6) Illinois vs. (6-7) UCLA UCLA, 34 Illinois, 24
Meineke Car Care Bowl: (6-6) Texas A&M vs. (6-6) Northwestern Texas A&M, 35 Northwestern, 21

Bowl Preview: Dec. 27 to Dec. 28

Little Caesars Bowl: (7-5) Western Michigan vs. Purdue (6-6)
This may not be the best bowl in the nation but it should be competitive. The Broncos are headed by a lethal passing attack. Junior quarterback Alex Carder can be dangerous at times and had 28 touchdown passes this year. He has an All-American receiver to throw to which always helps in Jordan White. White is prolific and had 127 receptions for 1,646 yards. The Boilermakers aren't flashy but they're are efficient and just find ways to win. Quarterback Caleb TerBush has had his fair share of up and downs but he can hang. Ralph Bolden leads a decent ground game for Purdue and will likely be the go to way to gain yards in this one. But the Broncos offense runs wild as Purdue falters to sub 500.
Western Michigan, 38 Purdue, 28
Belk Bowl: (7-5) Lousiville vs. NC State (7-5)
The Lousiville Cardinals football team had their best season since the era of Brian Brohm. Now they hope to finish off their season strong against a dangerous NC State team. The Cardinals was based on an okay passing game and a two-back set. Back Dominique Brown likely won't dominate games but he can play and Victor Anderson is really talented. Teddy Bridgewater's freshman year has been a roller coaster ride which you can expect considering he didn't have much to throw to. Mike Glennon's first year as starter went a lot better but he is still prone to mistakes. Senior T.J. Graham is his top option but he has a few others. James Washington provides stability in the ground game. Since this one is in Charlotte the Wolfpack should be considered the home team. That should decide this one.
NC State, 31 Lousiville, 27
Military Bowl: (8-4) Toldeo vs. Air Force (7-5)
Toldeo went 7-1 in the MAC and at times looked flawless in the conference. But their inability to win outside of the conference helped them finish off 8-4. Now as they prepare to face Air Force as the favorite expectations are high. They have had the best offense in November-December than any other team. Sophomore Terrance Owens can throw the ball like a NFL quarterback at times and it certainly helps that he has lethal receiver Eric Page. The ground game isn't too bad either as it is led by Adonis Thomas who rushed for 963 yards and 11 touchdowns this year. Air Forde has a solid group of players though headed by playmaking Tim Jefferson their quarterback. Their rush attack is centered around Asher Clark who will run and run in this one. Both defenses aren't great but can make plays occasionally.
Toldeo, 35 Air Force, 31
Holiday Bowl: (7-5) Texas vs. California (7-5)
Texas not making a bowl? Okay thats bad. But Texas starting off 4-0 and then finishing off 7-5 and making the Holiday Bowl? Thats just as bad. The Longhorns went through a whole QB controversy this season but they seem to have found their man. Colt's little brother Case McCoy looked good at times this year and has a bright future. He has a good running back behind him in freshman Malcolm Brown. And okay wide outs in Jaxon Shipley and sophomore Mike Davis. The defense for the 'Horns is also good but not great headed by linebacker Keenan Robinson and safety Blake Gideon. The Golden Bears have a dual threat in Zach Maynard and a fantastic back in Isi Sofele who has 1,270 yards so far this season. Keenan Allen gives Maynard a big option but Texas is too good and it's hard to see them lose 5 plus two straight years.
Texas, 28 California, 27

Bowl Preview: Dec. 22 to Dec.26

Las Vegas Bowl: (11-1) Boise State vs. Arizona State (6-6)
A hot start by the Sun Devils has fallen into a year of disappointment while the Broncos hope to win in a blowout in Kellen Moore's last game. Broncos coach Chris Peterson will have Moore passing like their is no tomorrow and for him their isn't another game. Brock Osweiler is big for the Sun Devils and can move around and he'll constantly have to do that with the Broncos rush running wild. Defensive tackle Billy Winn and Shea McClellan will put big hits on Osweiler. Can Cameron Marshall find his groove in this one. Hopefulluy or else this one could be a blowout in Las Vegas.
Boise State, 42 Arizona State, 31
Hawaii Bowl: (11-2) Southern Mississippi vs. Nevada (7-5)
The Nevada Wolfpack didn't fall too much without Colin Kaepernick as two-quarterback attack and a two-back trio helped them claim 7 wins 5 coming in the WAC. The two QB set is headed by freshman Cody Fajardo and senior Tyler Lantrip both aren't dominant but they get the job done. They have a big time receiver in Rishard Matthews who had 91 catches and over 13 hundred yards. Though can the Wolfpack defense shut down a prolific Golden Eagles offense headed by their awesome quarterback Austin Davis who threw for 28 touchdowns. He is prone to making mistakes though. Ryan Balentine is a safety blanket for Davis and will have a strong appearance in this one.
Southern Mississippi, 35 Nevada, 30
Independence Bowl: (7-5) Missouri vs. (7-5) UNC
Considering all their problems entering this year the Tar Heels going 7-5 was a success. Both of these team's young quarterbacks produced solidly in their first year as starters as Missouri's James Franklin had 20 touchdowns with 10 picks and Bryn Renner from the Heels had 23 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Both teams aren't one sided as both have good defenses and effective offenses. The Tigers talented back, Henry Josey can do serious damage and is tough to take down. But the problem: he probably won't play. Though Franklin is a huge problem becuase he is a dual threat having rushing for 839 yards. That might end up being to much for the Tar Heels defense to handle as the Tigers improve to 8-5.
Missouri, 28 UNC, 21

Bowl Preview 2011: Dec. 17 to Dec. 21

New Mexico Bowl: (8-4) Temple vs. Wyoming(8-4)
Both of these teams have different offensive strengths. The Owls have a strong ground game headed by Bernard Pierce. Pierce had 1,381 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns and gives the Owls a high scoring threat. The Cowboys meanwhile like to pass led by Brett Smith. Both defenses aren't stacked which will make it an interesting war. Pierce leads and upbeat Owls team past a weak Wyoming squad.
Temple, 35 Wyoming, 24
Famous Idaho Potato Bowl: Ohio(9-4) vs. Utah State (7-5)
I'm pretty excited for this one despite a first look at the Potato Bowl might not look that good. The Aggies should be 8-4 while Ohio should be 10-3 after leading most of the MAC Championship. Both offenses can score and could even possibly be a shootout. Bobcats quarterback Tyler Tettleton had a pretty prolific sophomore year passing for 3,000 plus yards and 26 touchdowns. Don't think Utah State won't keep it close as they have a fantastic back with Robert Turbin who had 1,416 yards and will get at least 20 rushes against Ohio. Though the Bobcats have a beast linebacker in underrated senior Noah Keller who will hope to hold Turbin. Ohio avenges disappointing MAC loss by killing Utah State.
Ohio, 38 Utah State, 21
New Orleans Bowl (8-4) San Diego State vs. Lousiana-Lafayette (8-4)
With the likely move to the Big East almost here the Aztecs hope to end their season with a win. Aztecs back Ronnie Hillman ended up having a dominant year rushing for 1,656 yards but they aren't one dimensional at all. Quarterback Ryan Lindley is no slouch and is efficient giving the Aztecs a strong offense. Lafayette doesn't get into bowls much so this year should be considered a success win or loss. Junior Blaine Gautier is smart and can play with anyone but San Diego State wins pretty comfortably.
San Diego State, 34 LA-Lafayette, 24
St. Petersburg Bowl: (8-4) Florida International vs. Marshall (6-6)
FIU is making their first back to back bowl appearance for the first time in school history. Marshall is 6-6 and trying to take home their seventh win of the year. Both have strong aerial attacks but the Panthers should be worried about end Vinny Curry who will constantly pressure the quarterback. Senior Wesley Carroll will have to deal with it though in order to snatch a Panthers win. Marshall wide out Aaron Dobson made highlights for his awesome one-handed catch earlier this year but that wasn't his only catch as he made 41 more and was the Herd's leading receivfer.
Poinsettia Bowl: TCU (10-2) vs. Lousiana Tech (8-4)
For yet another year a good TCU team is stuck in a bad bowl. Though they'll face a pretty good Lousiana Tech team. Casey Pachall had an okay year replacing Andy Dalton but the Horned Frogs rely on a three-man running game with Waymon James, Matthew Tucker and Ed Wesley. The Horned Frogs defense is headed by two great linebackers in Tank Carder and Tanner Brock and will shut down a good Bulldogs running game.
TCU, 28 Lousiana Tech, 20

Who the Heck is Going to Win the Heisman?

Throughout the better part of the year the Heisman solution was pretty much a forgone conclusion. Andrew Luck, Andrew Luck and more Andrew Luck. Luck was leading an undefeated squad with not fantastic receivers and putting up big numbers while doing it. Then came the downfall as Luck struggled to preserve Stanford's perfect mark and the Cardinal slipped against Oregon. Now the list of candidates is almost endless. Robert Griffin from Baylor, Trent Richardson from Alabama, Montee Ball from Wisconsin, Brandon Weeden and Justin Blackmon from Oklahoma State head the top of the list with Luck. Griffin is a dynamic player who can run and pass for big yardage and his success with the Bears this year will help him. Trent Richardson is a speedster who is tough to stop but questions have emerged about if he can perform against top notch teams after a rough LSU game. Ball scores touchdown after touchdown but isn't really considered a true contender though he'll earn some talk. Weeden once looked like the front runner but his rough game against Iowa State likely dashed his chances. Justin Blackmon is fantastic and fun to watch but of course wide receiver isn't a very Heisman worthy position. And finally Luck, the smart and hard-working NFL prospect. Kellen Moore and Case Keenum have the stats but they needed their respective teams to go undefeated to win. Now with both at one loss they're done. So now you first-hand see how many good candidates are going to be looked at not to count the others which I didn't include. But I really don't see a Baylor quarterback winning the award. Luck wins with Richardson a close second because they play on big time television and do it with surrounding players not fantastic.

Pre-Bowl Rankings

1. LSU Dominant once more against a tough team.
2. Alabama Look like rematch against LSU is forgone conclusion.
3. Oklahoma State Win against Sooners was fantastic but still aren't likely to gain entry into championship.
4. USC Playing as well as any team in the nation but Trojans can't go bowling.
5. Stanford Andrew Luck leads powerful team that will likely only lose one game this year.
6. Oregon Won Pac-12 but still have some chinks in the armor.
7. Boise State Will likely see another weak bowl game this year.
8. Arkansas They may be 10-2 but two losses were blowout losses to 'Bama and LSU.
9. Wisconsin I thought Michigan State played better in Big Ten championship but no denying that the Badgers are 11-2.
10. South Carolina Have a good team but offense needs to improve.
11. Kansas State Unorthodox but the Wildcats play well and hard.
12. Michigan This team isn't perfect but Brady Hoke has them playing hard.
13. Virginia Tech Embarassing loss to Clemson hurt Hokies but they are still dangerous.
14. Clemson The Tigers hope they'll play more like they did in the first eight games of the season then the last five in their bowl game.
15. TCU Horned Frogs May be the hottest team in the nation and have big win on resume over Boise State.
16. Baylor Led by Robert Griffin (RG3) the Bears have big wins over Texas and Oklahoma.
17. Oklahoma Such a promising start has been overshadowed by disappointing losses.
18. Houston They were just one win away from a BCS bowl but choked aginst dangerous Southern Mississippi squad.
19. Georgia I like this team but it was obvious they weren't ready to beat LSU.
20. Southern Mississippi They just didn't beat Houston they dominated them.
21. Nebraska Bo Pelini has good team but they just couldn't handle their first new in a new league.
22. West Virginia Last second win over South Florida gives Mountaineers a chance at a BCS bowl.
23. Penn State Such a horrible season has been helped by the fact that they went 9-3.
24. Michigan State Should be higher I know that they are tons of better teams.
25. Florida State Disappointing year but the Seminoles are getting better.

Championship Game Predictions

Big Ten- Michigan State vs. Wisconsin
In the inaugural Big Ten championship two prolific squads face-off in a rematch. Both like to run but both can pass. Montee Ball has been dominant this year pushing the pace already with 34 touchdowns and Russell Wilson can scramble. Wilson is now comfortable in this offense and has a top option with Nick Toon. Kirk Cousins capped off the regular season victory with a hail mary. He won't put up five touchdowns a game especially against the Badgers but he is efficient. Both defenses aren't as strong as their offenses but are still above average. Wilson will get a lot of pressure from the Spartans big man in the middle Jerel Worthy. Both are ready to seize the championship but the Badgers are just too good too lose. Wisconsin, 35 Michigan State, 27.
ACC- Virginia Tech vs. Clemson
The reason for the fade of Clemson the last four games has been turnovers. After an 8-0 start and looking dominant in the conference the Tigers have lost three of the last four. Tajih Boyd needs to find his stroke and Andre Ellington and Sammy Watkins must recover from injuries. Virginia Tech has been called overrated at slot five but they looked amazing against Virginia. Logan Thomas has the smarts and skills and has a great back behind him in David Wilson. Can both defenses by respectable? However plays better on "D" will end up winning. And I think it will be Clemson. Yup, they're back. Clemson, 31 Virginia Tech, 28
Conference USA- Southern Mississippi vs. Houston
Would anyone choose this one over the ACC or Big Ten? I think maybe you should consider watching this one as two dangerous squads meet up. Houston is sixth and currently undefeated led by prolific quarterback Case Keennum. Though if you can slow down Keenum you can easily handle the Cougars. Though that is better said then done. Southern Miss doesn't have a slouch of their own with Austin Davis. Both defenses aren't very strong and need to show up. Keenum's passing game is just too much for the Golden Eagles as Houston clinches Houston, 42 Southern Mississippi, 35
SEC- LSU vs. Georgia
No team has been better then the Tigers this year but Georgia has won 10 straight after starting off 0-2. The Tigers have just as good of an offense as their scary good defense. Jarrett Lee is efficient and Jordan Jefferson is a playmaker at quarterback. The backfield is still their strength though headed by Spencer Ware and Michael Ford both who are powerful. Georgia has got a good quarterback with Aaron Murray but how will he be able to perform facing one of the best secondaries in the nation? Isaiah Crowell is a dangerous freshman that leads the steady Bulldogs ground game. But if the Bulldogs are to pull off the upset they need to stop LSU's deadly defensive line which provides a constant pass rush. LSU, 27 Georgia, 21
Pac 12- Oregon vs. UCLA
I bet the Pac 12 their first championship game included USC not UCLA. Rick Neuheisel prepares for what will be likely his last game unless he coaches a bowl game. Oregon's speedy offense is headed by Heisman canidate LaMichael James and effective Kenjon Barner. Darron Thomas has been strong this year passing for 27 touchdowns and just five interceptions. UCLA meanwhile has an improving quarterback Kevin Prince and back Johnathan Franklin running all around. Oregon though has an underrated secondary that I really like with guys like smart John Boyett and speedy Cliff Harris who will also be a factor on special teams. Though the Bruins defense is too weak which makes this one a pretty much forgone conclusion. Oregon, 38 UCLA, 24

Early Thoughts on College Basketball Season

Michigan State started off their year against UNC and Duke but it may have helped them. They'll play amazing come tournament time becuase of the tough teams they played early. And they didn't play horrible against either teams. UCLA is looking like a NIT team not a preseason Elite Eight possibility. Of course they have had a tough schedule but losses to Loyola Marymont and getting killed by Michigan doesn't help. Memphis has also been a disappointment with losses to Michigan and most recently a heartbreaker to Georgetown. Baylor looks more prepared this season for high expectations. But they still have yet to play anyone. Kansas looks really good this year considering what they lost. A 3-2 mark may not be fantastic but they played Kentucky and Duke hard both top ten teams. Mississippi State is ready for a breakout year. They've beat Texas A&M and Arizona comfortably and they are currently 5-1. Who hasn't Duke played this year? But so far they look real good and are undefeated with Ohio State looming. They have the talent to win it all.

College Basketball Preview: 15. Michigan Wolverines

Hardaway is a real talent and will have such a good season that the Wolverines will not miss Morris.

15. Michigan Wolverines Key Returnees: G/F Tim Hardaway Jr., C Jordan Morgan, G Zach Novak
G Stu Douglass- Senior
G Zach Novak- Senior
F Tim Hardaway Jr.- Sophomore
F Evan Smotrycz- Sophomore
C Jordan Morgan- Sophomore
Sixth- Trey Burke- Freshman
Top Recruit: Trey Burke
John Bellien came out of now where to lead the Wolverines to a 21-14 mark and a NCAA appearance in what was expected to be a rebuilding year for Michigan. Now with four starters back opponents will have their eyes on the Wolverines more. Tim Hardaway Jr. leads the returners and the guard/forward will help soften the loss of leading scorer Darius Morris who ditched early to the NBA. The backcourt will still be solid without Morris thanks to the return of Zach Novak a psychical defender and Stu Douglass who can shoot. Douglass will have to battle freshmen Trey Burke and Carlton Brundidge for the starting point guard spot but may have the edge thanks to experience. Matt Vogrich is a sniper that should get more minutes with the loss of Morris. The frontcourt isn't as experienced but may be better up front but doesn't have depth. Center Jordan Morgan isn't huge but he has the agility and smarts to become an effective center. Evan Smotrcyz isn't flashy but he can play strong minutes and will be a piece to the puzzles for the squad. Sophomores Jon Horford and Colton Christian should also get some playing time.
Bottom Line: The Wolverines couldn't handle high expectations in 2009-2010 but this season will go differently.

College Basketball Preview: 14. UCLA Bruins

Nelson may not look big but in truth the forward is a rebounding machine.

14. UCLA Bruins Key Returnees: F Reeves Nelson, C Joshua Smith, G Lazeric Jones
G Lazeric Jones- Senior
G Norman Powell- Freshman
F Reeves Nelson- Junior
F Travis Wear- Sophomore
C Joshua Smith- Sophmore
Sixth- David Wear- Sophomore
Top Recruit: Norman Powell
Three starters are back from a dangerous second-place finisher in the Pac 10. Now with Utah and Colorado coming in it won't hurt the Bruins. The frontcourt is stocked with talent with center Joshua Smith, forward Reeves Nelson and the arrival of former North Carolina star recruits David and Travis Wear. Smith has real talent and will improve even more in his sophomore season. He'll constantly carve out space underneath and gives the Bruins a talent inside as good as Tyler Honeycutt was. The Wear brothers aren't dominant but should get some big minutes this season. Reeves Nelson may not be huge but he can rebound like a center. He currently leads all returning Pac 12 players in rebounding with 9.1 rebounds per game. Junior Brendan Lane is big but still has a good shot and will play some minutes. The backcourt isn't as strong but still has talent thanks to the return of Lazeric Jones. Jones won't change any games but he is effective and smart. Ben Howland brought in a number of freshman that will play constantly at guard with guys like Norman Powell and former junior college man De'End Parker.
Bottom Line: The Bruins are coming back but the backcourt will keep them from getting back to the Final Four.

College Basketball Preview: 13. Xavier Muskeeters

Few players are better then Holloway and this year he'll have talent to help him.

13. Xavier Musketeers Key Returnees: G Tu Holloway, C Kenny Frease, G Mark Lyons
G Tu Holloway- Senior
G Mark Lyons- Junior
F Travis Taylor- Junior
F Jeff Robinson- Junior
C Kenny Frease- Senior
Sixth- Dezmine Wells- Freshman
Top Recruit- Dezmine Wells
Over the years few teams have been as consistent as the Xavier Musketeers. Once again it looks like this will be a dangerous squad thanks to the return of one of the top players in the nation in Tu Holloway and the A-10's top recruiting class. Holloway has speed and can handle the ball well. In the backcourt with him is junior Mark Lyons who can shoot and plays smart. Dee Davis is a freshman who will come in and get minutes right away. He reminds off Holloway but any freshman will need some adjusting period. Brad Redford may also get some time in the backcourt. Dezmine Wells may play guard but small forward may be the slot where he will get more minutes. He may well be the top incoming player for Xavier. The frontcourt isn't too bad either thanks to the return of center Kenny Frease and forward Jeff Robinson. Frease is big and has the tools to be dominant while Robinson is hard-working and can produce. Junior Travis Taylor will likely start at small forward and can be effective but won't change the game. Senior Andrew Walker hasn't had tons of playing time in his first three seasons but may play a little bit more of a role this season.
Bottom Line: It's Xavier, which means that they will always contend but this season they may take even a bigger step forward.

College Basketball Preview: 12. Baylor Bears

The return of Acy (above), Jones and Walton have fans excited in Waco.
12. Baylor Bears Key Returnees: F/C Perry Jones, F Quincy Acy, G A.J. Walton
G A.J. Walton- Junior
G Duece Bello- Freshman
F Quincy Acy- Senior
F Anthony Jones- Senior
F/C Perry Jones- Sophomore
Sixth- Quincy Miller- Freshman
Top Recruit- Quincy Miller
Few teams were more disappointing then the Bears in 2010-2011 as a preseason top 25 squad faltered to a 18-13 mark and tied for seventh in the Big 12. Now they return most of that team last year including big man Perry Jones who didn't disappoint in his first year in Waco. Jones has the ability and smarts to become one of the best forwards in the nation. Anthony Jones plays hard and can shoot despite being 6 foot 10 inches. Quincy Acy returns to bolster the frontcourt even more. He is currently second in school history in career field-goal percentage. The backcourt is also deep and talented. A.J. Walton is back and will likely be asked to play at the point. He is a great passer and playmaker. Without LaceDarius Dunn incoming freshman Duece Bello may start at the shooting guard slot. Bello can dunk like an NBA star and is super quick. Forward Quincy Miller is Scott Drew's next big recruit and can do damage but may not get many minutes in his first year. California transfer Gary Franklin will have to sit out fall semester but can he will get playing time he can be productive. Sophomore guard Brady Heslip will add more depth to the backcourt.

College Basketball Preview: 11. Florida Gators

A Top 100 recruit last year Prather could start without Alex Tyus, Chandler Parsons or Vernon Macklin.

11. Florida Gators Key Returnees: G Kenny Boynton, G Erving Walker, F/C Patric Young
G Erving Walker- Senior
G Kenny Boynton- Junior
F Casey Prather- Sophomore
F Will Yeguete- Sophomore
C Patric Young- Sophomore
Sixth- Bradley Beal- Freshman
Top Recruit: Bradley Beal
You might be keen to forget the big year that Florida had last season. After a rough start the Gators went 13-3 in the SEC and pulled up all the way to the Elite Eight. Sure the Gators lost three starters in the frontcourt but the backcourt might be the best in the nation. Senior Erving Walker is experienced and has a good shot and can play defense well while Kenny Boynton is explosive and tough to guard. Both have a chance at being All-SEC picks. Billy Donavan gained a true talent when he convinced Bradley Beal to come to Florida. Beal is thought of as the number two ranked incoming guard behind Austin Rivers. Also brought in is Mike Rosario the former Rutgers star who averaged 16.7 points per game for the Scarlet Knights during the 2009-2010 season. The frontcourt has some issues but also has a star in the making in Patric Young. He is a blocking machine as he led Florida with 31 blocks last year despite being sixth in minutes and has a real chance to produce this year. Casey Prather was a Top 100 recruit last year and may get a chance to start this year. The power forward position is an issue with the offseason arrest of Erik Murphy which means bruiser Will Yeguete may start.
Bottom Line: The Gators backcourt will be dominant and if the frontcourt can produce a second straight Elite Eight trip isn't impossible.

College Basketball Preview. 10. Louisville Cardinals

If Siva can shoot better then last year he can turn into a dangerous player for a dangerous Lousiville team.
10. Louisville Cardinals Key Returnees: G Peyton Siva, C Gorgui Dieng, G Kyle Kuric
G Peyton Siva- Junior
G Chris Smith- Senior
F Angel Nunez- Freshman
F Jared Swopshire- Junior
C Gorgui Dieng- Sophomore
Sixth- Kyle Kuric- Senior
Top Recruit- Wayne Blackshear
Last years promising 25-9 mark heading into the tournament and tie for 3rd in the tough Big East was ended abruptly when the Cardinals were stunned by Morehead State. This year will promise even better results. The 2011-2012 Louisville squad will be headed by a strong backcourt and improving frontcourt. Peyton Siva is back and is ready for a big year. He makes great passes but if he doesn't shoot better that 9.9 points per game won't improve much. Chris Smith is the other returning backcourt player. Smith is a senior with experience and unlike Siva can shoot. Kyle Kuric is dangerous off the bench and will be a big contributor while Wayne Blackshear is a hyped recruit who will produce. Louisville's biggest question mark resides at the small forward position. Angel Nunez is an incoming freshman that is really the only healthy pure small forward. Though the rest of the frontcourt is pretty good. Jared Swopshire was effective in 2009-2010 before missing all of 2010-2011 with a groin injury. Center Gorgui Dieng had a good freshman year and will be asked to contribute more as a sophomore. Stephen Van Treese is solid but will come off the bench most games.
Bottom Line: Rick Pitino once more has a talented squad but they might not be ready to take the next step.

College Basketball Preview: 9. Pittsburgh Panthers

We know Gibbs is good but his supporting cast must be better if the Panthers are to win a national title.

9. Pittsburgh Panthers Key Returnees: G Ashton Gibbs, F Nasir Robinson, F/C Talib Zanna
G Travon Woodall- Junior
G Ashton Gibbs- Senior
F Nasir Robinson- Senior
F Khem Birch- Freshman
F/C Talib Zanna- Sophomore
Sixth- J.J Moore- Sophomore
Top Recruit- Khem Birch
Thanks to the return of Ashton Gibbs coach Jamie Dixon once more has a championship caliber team over in Pittsburgh. Gibbs may end up being the Big East Player of the Year and if he can distribute the ball better he could be a National Player of the Year canidate. He might be able to play point guard but it would be hard to imagine 5-11 Travon Woodall at shooting guard. Isaiah Epps was redshirted last year but will now play a large role. Freshman Cameron Wright and John Johnson will add more depth in the backcourt. Nasir Robinson is the other returning starter along with Gibbs. Robinson isn't big but he is tough and plays hard. Forward Khem Birch might be the top recruit in the Big East this year. He may not be a double-digit scorer but he can rebound and will block shot after shot. Talib Zanna may start at the center postition now that effective Gary McGhee is gone. He may just be six feet, 9 inches but he is pyschical and will work underneath. Sophomore J.J Moore is going to be valuable off the bench and freshman Malcolm Gilbert adds height.
Bottom Line: Dixon has one of the most talented players in the nation with Gibbs and one of the better teams also.

College Basketball Preview: 8. Memphis Tigers

After rough junior year Witherspoon must prove to Pastner and Memphis that he deserves starting spot.

8. Memphis Tigers Key Returnees: G Will Barton, G Joe Jackson, F Tarik Black
G Joe Jackson- Sophomore
G Will Barton- Sophomore
F Wesley Witherspoon- Senior
F Tarik Black- Sophomore
C Stan Simpson- Junior
Sixth- Chris Crawford- Sophomore
Top Recruit- Adonis Thomas
John Calipari who? The Tigers enter their third season of the post-Calipari era and this one is sure to go better then the first two. A talented and deep backcourt is back headed by Joe Jackson and Will Barton. Neither are natural point guards but both will have to split if they want to keep their starting jobs. Chris Crawford and Charles Carmouche are skilled. Carmouche is a senior and has experience while Crawford is yet another sophomore on this roster. Senior Wesley Witherspoon may be the most talented and versatile player on the roster. He can play guard but he is better at the small forward position. He'll be bigger of a part of this team after a weak junior year. Also in the frontcourt is Tarik Black who can play pyschical no matter who he is up against. Josh Pastner also brought in forward Adonis Thomas who has the tools to be a dominant player. Transfer Stan Simpson is probably the only natural center on the team and could start immediately after transferring from junior college.
Bottom Line: Tigers will dominate C-USA but may still be too young to make a deep run in the tournament.

College Basketball Preview: 7. UConn Huskies

Replacing Walker may be impossible but Napier believes he can do it.

7. UConn Huskies Key Returnees: G Jeremy Lamb, F/C Alex Oriakhi, G Shabazz Napier
G Shabazz Napier- Sophomore
G Jeremy Lamb- Sophomore
F Roscoe Smith- Sophomore
F Tyler Olander- Sophomore
C Alex Oriakhi- Junior
Sixth- DeAndre Daniels- Freshman
Top Recruit- DeAndre Daniels
So Kemba Walker is gone but the Huskies aren't dead. Jim Calhoun has an opportunity to win two straight thanks to the return of Jeremy Lamb and Alex Oriakhi, the two most talented returners. Lamb emerged as one of the top shooting guards in the country last season and will improve even more in his sophomore year. Oriakhi isn't as tall as some centers in the Big East but his big frame and psychically will help him dominate down low. Sophomore Shabazz Napier will hope to be the man that can at least try to replace Walker. He looked like he could be able at time last to do exactly that. Also getting time in the backcourt will be German Niels Giffey another sophomore. The frontcourt also has a lot of depth with guys like Tyler Olander and Roscoe Smith. Olander has the smarts and can make plays while Smith is fast and will do damage. DeAndre Daniels is a Top 10 recruit who can play power forward but can still step back and hit the shot on the perimeter.
Bottom Line: Two straight will be tougher without Walker but it won't be impossible.

College Basketball Preview: 6. Duke Blue Devils

With both Singler and Smith gone Curry could end up being Duke's leading scorer.

6. Duke Blue Devils Key Returnees: F Miles Plumlee, F Mason Plumlee, G Seth Curry
G Austin Rivers- Freshman
G Seth Curry- Junior
F Mason Plumlee- Junior
F Miles Plumlee- Senior
C Marshall Plumlee- Freshman
Top Recruit: Austin Rivers
Few programs can lose two of the best players in the ACC in Kyle Singler and Nolan Smith and lose the number one draft pick Kyrie Irving and still be a top ten team. This years Duke Blue Devils squad will be led by the three Plumlee brothers Marshall, Miles and Mason all 6 feet 10 inches or bigger. Miles has great skills and has experience while Mason is always a double-double threat and Marshall is big and psychical. Seth Curry is Stephons brother and has just as much talent but will play tough competition. He has the chance to be Duke's leading scorer this next season. Austin Rivers is Doc's son and is super speedy. Though gaining the starting job may not be that easy. Junior Andre Dawkins has more experience and can shoot while sophomore Tyler Thornton is another talented guard. Ryan Kelly played a lot more minutes last season then in his freshman year and he may get even more in '11-'12.
Bottom Line: Its Duke and its hard to see the Blue Devils having a bad season. Coach K once more has a championship caliber squad.

College Basketball Preview: 4. Ohio State Buckeyes

Sullinger gets the hype but the sophomore forward Thomas is solid and will play a bigger role for the Buckeyes.

4. Ohio State Buckeyes Key Returnees: F/C Jared Sullinger, G William Buford, G Aaron Craft
G Aaron Craft- Sophomore
G William Buford- Senior
F Deshaun Thomas- Sophomore
F Jared Sullinger- Sophomore
C Amir Williams- Freshman
Sixth- Jordan Sibert- Sophomore
Top Recruit- Shannon Scott
Calling the Buckeyes this years top team would definitely be tempting. They won 20 plus to begin last season and return the player that got them there in Jared Sullinger. But overall Ohio State is just too young to dominate but a championship game still isn't out of the question. Sullinger is overwhelming for anybody facing him and the Buckeyes will constantly be dishing for him in the paint. William Buford is the lone senior on the squad. He is smart and can shoot the ball occasionally. Reigning Sixth-man of the Year Aaron Craft is a great defender and will play a bigger role now on the offensive end. Deshaun Thomas is strong and effective but a breakout season is still a year away. Thad Matta once more brought in a great recruiting class with guard Shannon Scott, forwards Sam Thompson and LaQuinton Ross along with center Amir Williams. Any number of them could start early but Williams may have the edge becuase he has experience.
Bottom Line: Thad Matta has another championship caliber team for 2011-2012 but getting there is a different story.

Week 6 Predictions

3 Oklahoma vs. 11 Texas Oklahoma, 35 Texas, 28
In yet another edition of this rivalry this one is sure to be less lopsided then last year. Landry Jones and the Sooners sweet passing game will hope to tear up the Longhorns rebuilding secondary. Though Texas has an interesting offensive attack of their own. A two quarterback tandem with Case McCoy and David Ash and a preferred ground game will help the Longhorns put up points. Freshman Malcolm Brown is speedy and a true talent and Fozzy Whittaker will pound it in. Two linebackers will be key for Texas in stuffing up a weak Sooners ground game in Emmanuel Acho and Keenon Robinson. Though the Sooners will be too much for the 'Horns to handle.
1 LSU vs. 17 Florida LSU, 34 Florida, 21
LSU faces another tough test but so far it definitely looks like they're the number one team in the nation. Les Miles has announced that Jarrett Lee will start and he has looked strong this season. He is very efficient and he has a head for the game. The Tigers also have a fantastic ground game with Michael Ford and Spencer Ware. They also have a great secondary that will shut down the Gators passing game with Tyrann Mathieu and Morris Claiborne. Charlie Wies knows that he can run the ball and no matter what defense they are playing that defense will have trouble stopping Jeff Demps and Chris Rainey. A young pair of players on the line for Florida will hope to help pull off the upset over the top ranked Tigers. Though that likely isn't going to happen.
10 Arkansas vs. 15 Auburn Arkansas, 27 Auburn, 24
After getting outplayed and beaten down by Alabama the Razorbacks climbed back up by beating a tough Texas A&M team. Now they face yet another test against the Auburn Tigers. Gene Chizik may not be entirely confident with Barrett Trotter yet but he hasn't been completely horrible through the season. Michael Dyer and Onterio McCalebb needs to lead the sweet Tigers rushing game. McCalebb is also a threat coming out of the backfield catching the ball. The Razorbacks may not have Knile Davis but they still have a deep ground game with Ronnie Wingo and Dennis Johnson.